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Community meals service meets big increase in demand

THE coronavirus crisis has seen a rocketing demand for the
borough’s community meals service.

Last week alone saw more than 1,300 meal deliveries, a big increase compared to 818 this time last year, as Woking Borough Council ensures elderly and vulnerable residents are receiving daily hot meals.

Loading up for a daily delivery

“A balanced, nutritional diet is essential for maintaining
good health, especially during these challenging times,” said Julie Meme, WBC’s
home independence manager.

“The referrals-only service supports residents who are
unable to prepare food themselves such as the elderly, frail and vulnerable. In
addition, we are supporting residents who have been discharged early from
hospital, meaning they can return home and help relieve pressure on the NHS.

“To support the increase in demand, our small team of
dedicated kitchen staff and drivers have been boosted by council staff who have
been redeployed from other parts the organisation, who are all doing a
fantastic job. While demand has increased, it’s important to know that the
service continues to have capacity to meet current and future demand,” she
said.

“It has been so heart-warming to witness the community’s
reaction to our service. Many of our team have received applause and thanks
from neighbours as they go about their deliveries.”

The community meals service delivers a lunchtime hot meal
with dessert, teatime meal and a breakfast pack for the following day, up to
seven-days-a-week. Special dietary needs are also available such as gluten
free, soft diet and Halal meal options.

Anyone wishing to volunteer their time to support vulnerable residents within their community are asked to register their interest by visiting the Volunteer Plus website at volunteerplus.org.uk/centres/woking.